Decision time, Aluminium Project boat or Keep our Catamaran? (ep 286)
February 15, 2025 · 14 min · 33K views · Lake Macquarie
What this video covers
Vernon and Marie-Morgane, owners of the catamaran *Treadrunner*, evaluated a 54-foot aluminum race boat in Australia to determine its viability as a long-term expedition refit project.0:05 After inspecting the vessel, Vernon identified significant structural and mechanical failures, including poor-quality welding, catastrophic wiring, and persistent hull leaks that caused standing water in the bilges.2:28 The boat’s 10-year-old Raymarine electronics and rigging were deemed obsolete due to age and lack of maintenance.7:56 Vernon concluded the project would exceed his criteria of a 12-month timeline and $100,000 budget, estimating it would instead require five years and $250,000.7:02 Marie-Morgane noted the boat lacked a "homey" feel and failed to provide the sense of safety required for their goal of sailing in colder, rougher climates like Patagonia.4:09 The couple plans to continue cruising *Treadrunner* through Indonesia, Papua, and the Kimberley region of Australia for the next two to three years while remaining open to future, more suitable aluminum project boats.12:14
Boats in this video
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